Camden Yards and the incredible enthusiasm of Orioles fans made playing here truly unforgettable. Birdland’s unwavering support has meant everything to me. From my first MLB hit to my first All-Star season, every moment has been a blessing.
I’m deeply thankful to the Orioles organization for believing in me and providing me the opportunity to grow. To my teammates and the staff, thank you for your unity, for pushing me to be my best, and for building a brotherhood I will always treasure.
Although my journey with the Orioles has concluded, I thank God for the people I’ve met, the lessons I’ve learned, and the memories I’ll carry with me forever. Thank you for everything.
Original Story (Jan. 20):
The Toronto Blue Jays secured a marquee free agent on Monday, signing Anthony Santander to bolster their potent lineup, according to a source familiar with the deal.
Santander agreed to a five-year contract worth over $90 million, including a club option for the 2030 season, pending a physical. The source spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.
The Blue Jays, who pursued Shohei Ohtani last year and were in the running for Juan Soto before his move to the Mets in December, had also reportedly been finalists for Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki before he signed with the Dodgers.
Adding Santander places him alongside stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette, and George Springer as Toronto looks to rebound from a disappointing 74-88 finish in the AL East in 2024.
Santander, 30, is coming off a career-best season with Baltimore, where he hit .235 with 44 home runs, 102 RBIs, and 91 runs in 155 games. His impressive .506 slugging percentage earned him his first AL All-Star nod.
He also became the first switch hitter since 2006 to hit 40+ home runs in a season and just the fourth in history to reach at least 44, joining legends like Mickey Mantle, Lance Berkman, and Chipper Jones.
The Venezuelan slugger played a pivotal role in helping Baltimore make the playoffs for a second consecutive year, though the team was swept by Kansas City in the opening round.
Originally signed by Cleveland as an international free agent in 2011, Santander joined the Orioles through the Rule 5 draft in December 2016.
After overcoming right elbow inflammation, he debuted with Baltimore on August 18, 2017, appearing in 13 games that season. He broke out in 2022 with 33 homers and 89 RBIs, helping the Orioles to an 83-79 record following a 110-loss season the year before.
Santander continued to excel in 2023, batting .257 with 28 homers, 95 RBIs, and a career-high 41 doubles as Baltimore clinched the AL East title with a 101-61 record before falling to the Rangers in the ALDS.
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